When to Replace Your Tires & Choose the Right Ones

Your tires play a crucial role in your vehicle’s safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. Driving on worn-out or damaged tires can put you at risk of accidents and costly repairs. But how do you know when it’s time for new tires? In this guide, we’ll go over the key signs of tire wear and what to consider when choosing replacements.

Signs You Need New Tires

1. Tread Wear

Tire tread provides the grip needed for safe driving, especially in wet or slippery conditions. As the tread wears down, your ability to stop quickly and maintain traction decreases.

How to Check It:

• Penny Test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low and it’s time for new tires.
• Tread Wear Indicators: Many tires have built-in wear bars that become visible when the tread is worn down to unsafe levels.

2. Cracks or Bulges

Over time, exposure to heat, UV rays, and road conditions can cause cracks in the rubber. Bulges or bubbles in the tire sidewall indicate structural damage that could lead to a blowout.

What to Do: If you notice cracks or bulges, replace the tire immediately to avoid dangerous failures.

3. Vibrations While Driving

Unusual vibrations can be a sign of uneven tire wear, misalignment, or internal tire damage.

What to Do: If your car shakes excessively, have a professional inspect your tires, suspension, and alignment to determine the cause.

4. Uneven Wear Patterns

If some areas of your tire wear down faster than others, it may indicate improper inflation, misalignment, or suspension issues.

What to Do: Regularly check tire pressure and get your wheels aligned to prevent premature wear.

5. Age of the Tires

Even if your tires look fine, they can deteriorate with age. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 6–10 years, regardless of tread depth.

What to Do: Check your tire’s manufacture date (found on the sidewall) and replace them if they are past their recommended lifespan.

Choosing the Right Replacement Tires

When replacing your tires, consider these factors:

• Tire Size: Always choose the correct size recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
• Seasonal Needs: Choose all-season, winter, or summer tires based on your climate.
• Performance Rating: Select tires based on your driving habits, whether you need high-performance handling or long-lasting durability.
• Brand and Quality: Investing in high-quality tires can improve safety and longevity.

For a deeper look into tire safety and maintenance, visit Tire Rack’s guide on choosing the right tires.

Get a Professional Tire Inspection

Not sure if your tires need replacing? Our expert team at Hiller Automotive can inspect your tires and recommend the best replacements for your vehicle. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your safety on the road!